Is there any difference in the quality of the Sako 85 and the Sako A7?

Both models are made in Finland.....are they not?

The Sako 85 is a superior rifle, better action, more $$$ etc. The A7 will shoot as well without all the above. Even the cheaper Tikka T3s shoot very accurately.

Its difficult say where Sako A7 built. I believe those built somewhere in USA. Reason why i say it bacause all those Sako a7 model is totally impossible buy here in Finland. Even Sako Finish web page dont writing anytihg of those. So that why i really think those model is made for USA market only and then also build there getting taxes lower. But like i say im not sure of it.

And most funny thing is you can buy cheaper Sako and Tikka rifle there in USA than we here in Finland. All time we can read some forum of people who plan and try buy rifles from there and shipping back finland because of lower price... Well that is politics but i dont understand how price could be lower after 2 X taxes and shipping but that is true.

But anyway i love Sako rifle and i think those is best factory made hunting rifle in that price level what rifle cost.

It‘s impossible to get Sako A-7 in Europe, this model is not even mentioned in any catalogue or website. I have NEVER seen one in stores......so I suppose it’s made ONLY for the US market !

A7's now come with a Burris Fullfield II 3-9x scope as well, in burris mounts.

quote:

Originally posted by Ingvar J. Kristjansson:
It‘s impossible to get Sako A-7 in Europe, this model is not even mentioned in any catalogue or website. I have NEVER seen one in stores......so I suppose it’s made in USA or at least made ONLY for the US market !

First time I've ever clapped eyes on an A7 was last March, during a visit in N. Zealand... I don't know whether to be saddened or relieved they (the A7) are not available in Europe.

best wishes,

Finman

quote:

Originally posted by Eland Slayer:
Is there any difference in the quality of the Sako 85 and the Sako A7?

Both models are made in Finland.....are they not?

Your an outfitter, is there any difference between a management deer and a trophy class deer,is the price the same?

Not trying to sound elitist, but I find that you are very seldom sorry you went first class.

I would venture to say, if you bought the A7, you might always wonder what might have been if you'd bought the 85. Chances are if you buy the 85, you won't be thinking, I wonder how that A7 would have shot.

If you don't want to pay the freight for a new model 85, more than likely you can find a previously enjoyed l61r, AV or even model 75. They can all be had, used for under a grand.

Best

GWB

There's no question in my mind that the Sako 85 is the first class product....

My complaint about the A7 (or Tikka, for that matter) is that I don't like the magazine protruding below the stock. It interferes with carrying it at the balance point, IMO. If the A7 had a fix for that issue, I'd seriously look at them.

As it is, I own Sako IV, 75, and 85's but no A7 as of yet.

Cheers,

Dan

Duly noted guys.....thank you for all your input.

I am thinking of putting together my own "semi-custom" rifle next year, to replace my current "go to" rifle.

I will likely be going with a Sako 85 Finnlight chambered in .300 WSM. I will probably end up tossing the factory stock in the trash and replacing it with a McMillan or something similar.....and adding a few more bells and whistles, with the goal of staying under $3,500 total after optics.

quote:

Originally posted by Eland Slayer:
Duly noted guys.....thank you for all your input.

I am thinking of putting together my own "semi-custom" rifle next year, to replace my current "go to" rifle.

I will likely be going with a Sako 85 Finnlight chambered in .300 WSM. I will probably end up tossing the factory stock in the trash and replacing it with a McMillan or something similar.....and adding a few more bells and whistles, with the goal of staying under $3,500 total after optics.

Thats kind of what I did with one - A Sako m75 Greywolf and replaced barrel and other work...built a 338-06AI...LOVE IT!!.

Will do the same with another Sako m75 rifle...but just replace stock with a McMiilan...270WSM.

I would kind of view this in the same vein as a Savage 116 vs Axis. Though that may not be a perfect analogy, you get what I'm saying.

I use a 3round mag in my t3 when walking and a 5round in my pocket. Makes 8-9 rounds quick available works fine for me i dont need to carry more ammo.

quote:

Originally posted by Eland Slayer:
Is there any difference in the quality of the Sako 85 and the Sako A7?

Both models are made in Finland.....are they not?

The Sako A7 is based on the 75 and retains many of the better features, but it was designed and developed to sell at a lower price point as an entry level Sako rifle. In that context, it's a good hunting rifle straight out the box, but it's not on the same level as a production 75 or 85.

I've kept two A7s, one in 243 Win which is used as a dedicated predator rifle, and a second in 30-06 which is used as a loaner/beater rifle. Both are custom rifle accurate, but they were purchased at dirt cheap sale prices, so if they break or are stolen, I would not feel a great loss. I've kept one 85 in 9.3x62 to replace a previous Kodiak. This particular 85 fits me well and has proven to be the single best production rifle I've owned straight from the box. I would feel a great loss if this rifle were gone.


A7 243 Win


A7 30-06


M85 9.3x62